Full review

Kemerton’s end washroom layout first saw the light of day in 2011, with a longer ‘XL’ derivative following (and now being the sole version produced). Auto-Sleepers does not introduce new models simply to follow fashion, but its ’vans do evolve, adding spec year on year.

So, the latest 2020-season Kemerton – in common with the company’s other van conversions – gets a number of new features and options.

Standard now is an on-board WiFi system, while the latest version of Peugeot’s Boxer gets the 165bhp Euro 6d motor. If you want an automatic, as before that means a switch to the equivalent Fiat base vehicle, but now with a slick nine-speed transmission – budget for £2,000 or £3,000 extra depending on whether you want 140 or 160bhp.

Other changes include a new Dometic microwave in the kitchen, optional Thule roof bars and a switch to Whale heating. This new gas/electric system is mounted underfloor, freeing up extra space inside.

The Kemerton XL is one of five layouts offered by Auto-Sleepers on the 6.36m Peugeot Boxer window van. It is also one of the more unusual, with generous bathroom facilities being the key USP.

Like the rest of the Peugeot van conversion range (eight models in total), it gets a choice of Casa Mila or Sagrada soft furnishings, each in a selection of five colourways. Furniture is Limewash Oak with a contrasting quarter panel of slate grey under a chrome strip and slate-coloured worktops.

Of course, the Kemerton continues to benefit from a high spec, including a 25-litre underfloor gas tank, Sargent Category 6 vehicle tracking system, a choice of metallic paint finishes and external barbecue, TV and 230V sockets.

The essential-but-optional (£2,500) Premium Pack adds goodies such as alloy wheels, cab air-conditioning, cruise control, a Thule awning, reversing camera, DAB radio with sat-nav, an 80W solar panel and Top Drive Semi-Air suspension. Then there are Media and Winter packs, too, at £995 and £295, respectively.

While the Fairford majors on offering extra berths and extra travel seats, the Kingham boasts a fixed bed and the Warwick XL has the ultimate in lounging, via a spacious rear seating area, the Kemerton’s appeal revolves mostly around its rear bathroom.

Stretching across the full width of the ’van, with a separate shower in the offside corner, this facility can also be accessed directly from outside, via the rear barn doors, which could be handy if you’ve got wet and muddy on a long hike.

At the opposite end of the vehicle, the lounge comes with a side sofa, a single forward-facing seat adjacent to the sliding door and – at a rather higher level – swivel cab chairs. The settee has coordinating armrest and scatter cushions, while the single seat makes occasional three-person travelling possible. At night the lounge can be converted into twin beds or a transverse double.

The main kitchen unit resides on the offside and features a half-height cooker with combined oven/grill and three gas burners. As well as plenty of storage and a decent amount of worktop, there’s a fitted microwave. The three-way fridge and wardrobe are opposite.

Other features of the Kemerton XL are an electric step, Reflex foam upholstery, melamine crockery set and a cocktail cabinet with crystal wine glasses.